Bijou Jubilee on June 6 to feature folk festival in theatre and on Gay Street

by | Mar 17, 2026 | The Daily Focus | 0 comments

 

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 20, for theatre’s largest annual fundraiser presented by Lawson Family Foundation

 

Bijou Jubilee, the Bijou Theatre’s biggest night of the year, is set for Saturday, June 6, from 4-11 p.m. – one night, but now with two stages, as the event spans indoor and outdoor venues for a festival-style celebration of East Tennessee music and culture.

 

This year, Bijou Jubilee expands onto Gay Street, as well as into the historic Bijou Theatre, for an evening of nationally acclaimed artists, beloved regional performers, square dancing, spirited festivities and shared tables under the lights.

 

The 2026 event will feature Margo Price and The Deslondes, and the full lineup of artists and schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.

 

All-inclusive tickets grant general admission access to both outdoor and indoor stages, dinner and drinks throughout the evening, complimentary parking and the silent auction – all in support of preserving and sustaining the Bijou Theatre for generations to come. Reserved seating and other benefits are available for event sponsors. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 20, at 10 a.m. ET at knoxbijou.org.

 

“For more than a century, the Bijou has been a place where East Tennessee gathers – for music, storytelling, laughter and community,” Bijou Theatre Executive Director Courtney Bergmeier said. “From bluegrass legends to contemporary artists and everything in between, the Bijou always has reflected the spirit of this region, and we are dedicated to continuing that tradition – not by looking back, but by bringing the music and culture of Appalachia forward, together, under one roof and out onto the street of downtown Knoxville.”

 

As the Bijou continues to invest in preservation and long-term improvements to the historic building, Jubilee plays a critical role in funding the work that keeps it vibrant and welcoming.

 

Proceeds from Bijou Jubilee benefit the preservation and operation of the historic Bijou Theatre, located within one of Knoxville’s oldest buildings. The Bijou Theatre is a non-profit cultural institution that raises funds to honor, restore and preserve its historic home; ensure a vibrant space for live performing arts; and support youth arts and education, local artists and community groups and the arts and cultural landscape of Knoxville.

 

“Jubilee isn’t just a party; it’s preservation in action,” Bergmeier said. “The music continues. The doors stay open. The story carries on. Join us to dance, sing and to help keep the lights on. Your support helps ensure that the Bijou remains a future-forward force in the arts and culture that make our community thrive.”

 

To help set the scene for an authentically Appalachian night, guests are encouraged to dress to represent the living traditions of East Tennessee; suggested attire includes but is not limited to denim and boots, vintage band tees, flowing dresses, western pearl-snap shirts, bold prints and well-loved leather.

 

The community is encouraged to participate in Bijou Jubilee’s online auction to support the Bijou Theatre’s largest fundraiser of the year. More information about the auction will be announced via the Bijou Theatre website and social media channels, and both Jubilee attendees and other supporters who cannot join in person will have the opportunity to bid in the auction to support the fundraising efforts.

 

Bijou Jubilee is presented by the Lawson Family Foundation with support from additional sponsors and partners. Table sponsorships for the event are available for purchase.

 

For live updates about this year’s events follow the Bijou on Instagram @bijoutheatre or join the mailing list by visiting knoxbijou.org. More details, the link to purchase tickets on March 20  and upcoming announcements also can be found at knoxbijou.org.